Copper coil (IUD) and vaginal dryness

I really had high hopes that the copper coil would work for me, as in theory it sounds great! However, after a long wait and several appointments later. I finally got the copper coil inserted. However… two weeks later, the coil had to be removed, as it had moved down from my uterus into my cervical canal. Which can happen and is apparently rare! I was just unlucky. Due to me never being pregnant or giving birth (according to the GP) insertion procedure without anaesthetic was super difficult and quite uncomfortable for me. Luckily the GP didn’t push and force her way through my cervix and stopped the procedure after struggling for a while. The GP then referred me to my local sexual health clinic, to have the procedure done there instead. As apparently they have more facilities available and can apply anaesthetic to your cervix, in these types of situations. When I finally had the procedure done, it was a positive experience, thanks to the anaesthetic!!! It did hurt a little. The pain felt like a sharp period cramp that came and went! I wouldn’t recommend the coil personally, as in my experience it was a faff to get done and then only to have it removed two weeks later! Also, with how easily the coil moved! And the procedure being slightly painful, even with anaesthetic. All of the above is not ideal!

I went with the copper coil as I didn’t want to use hormones. I’d previously used the depot injection and noticed a huge change when I stopped, hence sticking to none hormonal. The insertion wasn’t too bad, a quick ‘nip’ and it was over. The first 2-3 months my periods were pretty bad, massive cramps which I’m not used to and heavy bleeding. They quickly settled back to normal, no cramps etc. I’ve lived with this pretty much carefree up until the last month where I found out I was pregnant. My body had ‘rejected’ the coil and started to push it out of my body, hence the failure. It’s not ideal as the reason for the coil was to avoid this, but I suppose everything happens for a reason.

As someone who has tried the pill (COC) and the implant (and does not get crazy heavy periods), the copper IUD is the best option so far.... No hormonal side effects which is great, but I do have to say the increased period heaviness is more than I expected. I bleed longer (6-7 days where previously 3-4) and there is a lot more cramping involved. Also weirdly a lot of cramping around ovulation. Still happily take the pain and bleeding over the mental health side effects of the implant and pill. Cannot wait for continued research into contraception finding even better options!